Rajkot/Patiala, 10 January (Sports Desk)
India comfortably defeated Ireland by six wickets in the first one-day international of the series, held in Rajkot. Smitri Mandhana, captaining the Indian side in the absence of regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, played a pivotal role as India chased down Ireland’s target of 239 with 15.3 overs to spare.
Match Highlights
Ireland’s Innings:
- Skipper Gaby Lewis led Ireland with an impressive 92 off 129 balls, including 15 fours, becoming Ireland’s all-time leading ODI run-scorer with a career tally of 1,414 runs, surpassing Miriam Grealey’s 2005 record.
- Despite Lewis’ efforts, Ireland stumbled early, losing four wickets for just 56 runs by the 14th over, with Priya Mishra taking two crucial wickets, including dismissing Laura Delany for a first-ball duck.
- Lewis and Leah Paul (59) stabilized the innings with a 117-run fifth-wicket partnership. Paul was eventually run out by Harleen Deol, and Lewis fell to a catch-and-bowl by Deepti Sharma.
- Contributions from Arlene Kelly (28) and Christina Coulter Reilly (15* not out) pushed Ireland to a total of 238-7 in 50 overs.
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India’s Response:
- India started strong, reaching 70 runs in under 10 overs before Smitri Mandhana was dismissed for 41 by Freya Sargent.
- Pratika Rawal anchored the chase with a commanding 89 off 96 balls, sharing a vital 116-run partnership with Tejal Hasabnis (53* not out).
- While Aimee Maguire picked up three wickets, including dismissing Rawal just 11 runs short of a century, India’s batting depth ensured a smooth finish as they reached 241-4 in 34.3 overs.
Key Performances
- For Ireland:
- Gaby Lewis: 92 runs (129 balls, 15 fours).
- Leah Paul: 59 runs (steadying the innings).
- For India:
- Pratika Rawal: 89 runs (96 balls, pivotal knock).
- Tejal Hasabnis: 53* not out (secured the chase).
- Priya Mishra: 2-56 (early breakthroughs).
Looking Ahead
The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The teams will face off again in Rajkot on Sunday and Wednesday, with India aiming to maintain their momentum and Ireland looking to level the series.
